NIDDM & IDDM: Understanding Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Therapy

NIDDM (non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) and IDDM (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) are both outdated terms for type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively.

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin. In the early stages, people with type 2 diabetes can manage their blood glucose levels through diet, exercise, and oral medications. However, over time, some individuals with type 2 diabetes may need insulin therapy to help control their blood glucose levels.

When someone with type 2 diabetes starts using insulin, it does not change their diagnosis to type 1 diabetes. They are still considered to have type 2 diabetes, but they are now using insulin as a treatment to manage their condition.

It is important to note that the terms "adult-onset" and "juvenile-onset" are also outdated and can be misleading. Type 2 diabetes can occur at any age, not just in adults, while type 1 diabetes can occur in both children and adults.